Former Pakistan cricket player Kamran Akmal has offered an apology on social media following a controversial statement he made after the India-Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Pakistan narrowly lost to India by six runs, prompting Akmal to make an inappropriate comment during a television interaction in Pakistan.
During the final over, bowled by Arshdeep Singh of India, Akmal's derogatory remark about Singh's Sikh religion, accompanied by laughter, quickly spread on social media.
Akmal was heard saying before the final over, when 18 runs were needed off it: "Kuch bhi ho sakta hai... 12 baj gaye hai... kisi Sikh ko nahi dena chaiye 12 baje over. (Anything can happen, It's 12 past midnight, a Sikh shouldn't bowl after midnight)."
The video sparked outrage globally, with many in Pakistan condemning Akmal's offensive comment.
Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh responded vehemently on social media, criticizing Akmal for his disrespect.
"Shame on you Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of Sikhs before u open ur mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o'clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude Kamran Akmal," Harbhajan wrote on his X profile.
Facing widespread backlash, Akmal apologized on Monday night. Acknowledging his mistake, he expressed deep regret and extended a sincere apology to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community.
"I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry," Akmal wrote on his X profile.
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